WHITELEY

Rating: M

Length: 94 mins

Cast: Jack Barns, Andrew Blaikie, Sebastian Craig

“If you can see it on the big screen then do…a truly insightful and beautifully made portrait that’s wonderful to behold. This is a FIVE STAR documentary, a rare treat.” 5 STARS! MARGARET POMERANZ. STAGE & SCREEN.

Whiteley is a visual journey into the life and legacy of one of Australia’s most celebrated artists. The story, told in Brett’s own voice, opens a rare window into an artist’s mind.

Brett Whiteley is an Australian cultural icon. Nearly a quarter century after his death, there has never been anyone like Whiteley in the history of Australian art.

While his brief, dazzling life was erratic, combustible and tragic, Whiteley also created a highly productive and brilliant artistic vortex around which much of our 70s and 80s sense of self-worth as an aggressively creative nation emerged.

Despite the tabloid headlines, Whiteley’s life as an artist was defined by a vigorous work ethic, an exhaustive commitment to study of the work of others, and a willingness to take risks in his own work.

In the end and despite his inglorious demise, Whiteley was able to manifest an outstanding body of work that elevated him beyond his notoriety into the international echelons of preeminent modern artists.